Study on lightweight of vehicle body structure based on implicit parametric model

Abstract

In the early development phase of a passenger car, the implicit parametric model of the lower body of BIW was built by SFE CONCEPT and combined with the finite element model of other parts of BIW to compose the parametric BIW model. On an Optimus workflow including BIW stiffness and vibration mode, design variables and their effective range were defined based on engineering experiences and vehicle features. A Response Surface Model (RSM) was created through Design of Experiments (DOE), and effects of key parameters of BIW structure on the stiffness and vibration mode were analyzed. Finally global optimization was conducted, and the lightweight vehicle body structure in compliance with performance requirements of modal and stiffness purposes was obtained, which saved 11.35 kg (154.55 → 143.20 kg) and lightweight effect was 7.34%. © Springer-Verlag 2013.